WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. One of the key features of WhatsApp is voice and video calling, allowing users to easily connect with friends and family. However, many users encounter problems with WhatsApp calls, such as issues connecting, dropped calls, or poor audio/video quality. In this guide, we will explore the common WhatsApp call errors and provide troubleshooting steps to resolve them.
Common WhatsApp Call Errors
Here are some of the most common call errors on WhatsApp:
- Call Not Connecting – The call screen keeps loading but the call does not go through.
- Call Drops – The call connects initially but gets disconnected after some time.
- Poor Audio Quality – The recipient’s voice is cracked, choppy, or inaudible.
- Poor Video Quality – The video is pixelated, blurry, or freezes frequently.
- WhatsApp Calling Not Available – The WhatsApp call option is greyed out.
These errors can occur due to issues on the user’s device, network conditions, or server problems on WhatsApp’s end. The good news is that there are steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve many of these call issues.
Fix WhatsApp Call Connection Issues
If your WhatsApp call is not connecting or is getting dropped repeatedly, try these troubleshooting tips:
Check Your Internet Connection
The most common reason for WhatsApp call issues is an unstable internet connection. WhatsApp calls require a strong 3G, 4G or WiFi connection to function smoothly. Try these steps:
- Make sure your WiFi router or mobile data connection is working properly.
- If on WiFi, switch closer to the router or reset it.
- If using mobile data, check if you have adequate signal strength.
- Disable battery saver mode on your phone which can limit connectivity.
- Switch from WiFi to mobile data or vice versa to check if that fixes it.
An uninterrupted internet connection is key for avoiding WhatsApp call disconnections.
Update WhatsApp to the Latest Version
WhatsApp frequently releases updates with bug fixes and improvements for calling functionality. If you are facing call issues, updating to the latest WhatsApp version can help.
- On Android, go to Play Store > Menu > My Apps and check for WhatsApp update.
- On iPhone, go to App Store > Updates and refresh to see if WhatsApp update is available.
- You can also check for updates directly within WhatsApp in the app settings.
Install the latest update and then try making a call again. Update to resolve any known bugs or issues.
Restart Your Phone
Before troubleshooting further, try simply restarting your phone. This clears out any software glitches and resets all components.
- Power off your phone completely and leave it off for a minute.
- Switch it back on and once fully booted up, try making a WhatsApp call.
Restarting your device can fix instability issues causing WhatsApp calling problems.
Check if WhatsApp is Blocked
Some corporate networks and public WiFi networks block WhatsApp’s voice and video calling functionality. Try these steps:
- Connect your phone to a different WiFi or switch to mobile data.
- See if you can make WhatsApp calls over the new connection.
If calls go through on the new network, get in touch with your network admin to allow WhatsApp calling. Switch to mobile data if WiFi network is restricting calls.
Clear WhatsApp Cache and Data
Outdated cached data on WhatsApp can also lead to call issues. Wipe the cache and clear app data to fix such errors:
- On Android: Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Storage > Clear Cache and Clear Data
- On iPhone: Settings > General > iPhone Storage > WhatsApp > Offload App
Re-launch WhatsApp after clearing cache and data. Log in again and check if calls are working.
Fix WhatsApp Call Quality Issues
Beyond connection issues, poor audio or video quality can ruin the WhatsApp calling experience. Follow these tips to improve call quality:
Check Network Signal Strength
Weak mobile network signal or unstable WiFi connectivity often results in broken audio/video calls. Check the signal meters on your phone to ensure you have a strong 3G, 4G or WiFi signal when making WhatsApp calls. Move closer to windows or step outside to improve signal strength if needed.
Limit Background Activity on Your Phone
Other apps running activities in the background can interfere with WhatsApp call bandwidth. Before making a call, close other apps and disable needless background processing:
- On Android, swipe up from bottom to view open apps and close them.
- On iPhone, double click the home button and swipe up on apps to close them.
- Disable auto-syncing, auto-updates and background refresh for other apps.
This frees up network and processing resources for your WhatsApp call.
Turn Off Battery Saver Mode
To optimize battery life, Android phones enable ‘Battery Saver’ mode which restricts app activity. This can negatively impact WhatsApp call quality. Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Saver and disable it before making a call.
Clear Cache and Data
As mentioned before, outdated cached data can also cause glitches that affect call performance. Clearing the cache and app data may help restore call quality:
- On Android: Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Storage > Clear Cache and Clear Data
- On iPhone: Settings > General > iPhone Storage > WhatsApp > Offload App
Wipe cache and data, then re-launch WhatsApp. Check if call quality improves.
Update WhatsApp
New WhatsApp updates often include performance fixes for calling. Updating to latest version can enhance call quality:
- On Android, check Play Store for WhatsApp updates.
- On iPhone, check App Store for WhatsApp updates.
Install the newest update and test call quality after that. Updates resolve bugs that affect call functionality.
Disable WhatsApp’s Call Screen Feature
WhatsApp has a call screening feature that launches recording and AI during calls. This can negatively impact call performance for some users. You can disable it:
- WhatsApp Settings > Account > Privacy > Turn Off ‘Screen Lock’
Disable screen lock and check if it improves call quality during your next call.
Fix ‘WhatsApp Calling Not Available’ Error
Some users encounter a persistent ‘Calling Not Available’ error on WhatsApp. This can occur due to multiple reasons:
Outdated WhatsApp Version
Calling capabilities may be limited or disabled in extremely old or outdated versions of WhatsApp.
- Update WhatsApp to the latest version from your phone’s app store.
- Version 2.16.4 and higher fully support calls.
Updating WhatsApp will enable calling if your version is too old.
Incompatible Device
WhatsApp voice calling requires:
- Android running 4.1 or newer
- iPhone running iOS 8 or newer
Very old phone models may not be compatible. Upgrade your device to use WhatsApp calling.
Cellular or Connection Issues
On some mobile networks, connectivity issues can cause this error. Try changing networks by:
- Switching between WiFi and mobile data
- Trying different WiFi networks
- Trying your SIM card in another phone
If WhatsApp calling works on another network, get in touch with your mobile carrier regarding connectivity issues.
Incorrect Date & Time Settings
WhatsApp requires correct date and time settings on your phone to work properly. Go into device Settings and:
- Ensure ‘Automatic date & time’ and ‘Automatic timezone’ are enabled
- If needed, manually set date/time and timezone to correct values
Accurate time settings are required for WhatsApp functionality. Set this correctly if you had manually tweaked date and time.
Account Restrictions or Bans
In rare cases, WhatsApp may restrict calling capabilities for certain accounts due to policy violations. You may need to contact WhatsApp to appeal the restriction if you feel it was applied unfairly.
Prevent WhatsApp Call Issues
Beyond troubleshooting call errors reactively, you can take proactive steps to avoid WhatsApp call problems:
- Ensure your phone operating system is updated to the latest version.
- Use a stable high-speed WiFi or mobile data connection for calls.
- Set your region correctly in WhatsApp settings.
- Allow WhatsApp access to microphone and camera in app permissions.
- Clean cache/data and update WhatsApp regularly.
Following best practices for your phone and network helps minimize the likelihood of WhatsApp call issues.
Contact WhatsApp Support if Issues Persist
If you continue facing WhatsApp call problems despite troubleshooting, here are some support options:
- Direct Message WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) on Twitter for help.
- Email WhatsApp support at [email protected] describing your issue.
- Submit a request from within WhatsApp Settings > Help > Contact Us.
WhatsApp technical support may be able to investigate and resolve persistent call errors unfixed by standard troubleshooting.
Conclusion
WhatsApp calling is an incredibly convenient way to stay in touch, but call issues can hamper the experience. By following the troubleshooting tips in this guide, you can identify the root cause and implement the right solution to restore WhatsApp calling functionality. Update WhatsApp regularly, clear cache and data, check connections, restart devices, and disable battery optimizations to fix call problems. With the right troubleshooting, you can enjoy smooth WhatsApp calls and seamless communication with friends and family across the globe.
| Error | Potential Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Call Not Connecting | Weak internet connection, outdated WhatsApp, restricted by network, incorrect time settings | Check WiFi and mobile data, move closer to router, switch networks, update WhatsApp, set correct time |
| Call Dropping | Unstable internet, switching between WiFi and mobile data, server issues | Disable battery saver mode, connect to stable WiFi or high-speed mobile data, try again later |
| Poor Audio/Video Quality | Weak mobile signal, background apps using bandwidth, outdated WhatsApp | Close other apps, disable battery saver mode, move to location with better signal, update WhatsApp |
| WhatsApp Calling Not Available | Outdated WhatsApp version, incompatible device, network restrictions, account limitation | Update WhatsApp, use newer device model, try different network/SIM card/phone |